FLINTSTONE, Md. — Rocky Gap Lodge and Golf Resort defied rumors that its future might be in jeopardy by issuing a report in June that shows its business is up and its operations have improved compared to hotel performance nationwide.
“We are of course aware of the recent legislation that passed in the Maryland General Assembly offering enticements for prospective casino operators to purchase the lodge,” said David Sanderson, director of sales and marketing. “However, this has unnecessarily spurred rumors that the resort is in financial trouble or is already making preparations to become a casino. None of this is true. In fact, we continue to see growth in our group bookings despite the economy.”
General manager Tim Grambley said that group business had increased 14.6 percent in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2009. Spa income had increased 10 percent. “These increases come at a time when we experienced some of the area’s worst weather in decades, making the growth even more impactful,” he said
Grambley reported that for calendar year 2009, revenue per available roomdeclined, but it was less than half of the average national decline of 18 percent.
“The economic recession certainly created unprecedented dynamics for the hospitality industry,” said Grambley. “But I am very proud that thanks to our entire team focusing on operating efficiencies, best practices and results, we were able to grow income from operations.”
The 215-room lodge is operated by Crestline Hotels and Resorts and is one of the top performers among the 66 properties the company manages. The resort recently received the AAA Four-Diamond Award for the 10th consecutive year and saw a 64 percent increase in rounds played on its Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course.
Opened in 1998, the lodge, on Lake Habeeb in western Maryland, has 15,000 square feet of meeting space, including a 5,270-square-foot ballroom.
800-724-0828
www.rockygapresort.com
